Earwax: When to Clean and When to Leave It Alone

Internal ear problems?

Hello, I sometimes ask the doctor to check my ears for earwax when I visit for a cold.
I just looked at my left ear with my phone, and it seems like there is a yellowish substance.
I would like to ask if, in general, if there is no discomfort, pain, or itching, is it unnecessary to clean it out? I want to remove it myself, but I’m not sure if it’s earwax or just a pimple.
The last time I had it suctioned by a doctor, they said my ears were very clean.
Perhaps I had this before, but I didn’t notice it as clearly without the camera.
I’m not sure if it’s even earwax; the previous doctor seemed to think it wasn’t worth removing.
They told me it was fine and that I didn’t need to dig in my ears.
I also feel like if I keep digging, it might start to hurt a little, so I’m afraid to continue and risk infection or damage.
I’d like to know if earwax normally comes out on its own, or could it accidentally get pushed deeper into the ear? And if it’s just a pimple, should I ignore it if there are no symptoms? Given the recent concerns about the pandemic, I’d prefer not to go to the hospital unless necessary.
I hope you can help answer my questions.
Thank you.

Ki, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/05

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, indeed, if there are no specific symptoms, it is not necessary to regularly remove earwax, as the irritation during the removal process may actually increase earwax production.
Removal is only needed if it obstructs hearing or causes discomfort.
As for the ear canal, the presence of the eardrum prevents earwax from going too deep.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/05/05

More Info

When it comes to earwax, or cerumen, it's important to understand its role and when it is necessary to clean it. Earwax is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal, and it serves several important functions. It helps to lubricate the ear canal, provides a barrier against dust and foreign particles, and has antibacterial properties that help prevent infections.
In general, if you are not experiencing any discomfort, pain, itching, or hearing loss, there is usually no need to clean your ears frequently. The ear is self-cleaning; earwax typically migrates out of the ear canal naturally, aided by movements such as chewing and talking. This means that for most people, the earwax will gradually move to the outer ear where it can be easily wiped away during regular bathing.

If you notice a yellowish substance in your ear, it is likely earwax. However, if it is not causing any symptoms, it is best to leave it alone. Attempting to remove earwax with cotton swabs or other objects can push the wax deeper into the ear canal, potentially leading to impaction, which can cause discomfort and even hearing loss. In some cases, aggressive cleaning can lead to irritation or injury to the ear canal or eardrum.

If you have previously been told by a healthcare provider that your ears are clean, it is a good indication that you do not need to worry about the earwax you see. If you are unsure whether what you are seeing is earwax or something else, such as a pimple or skin irritation, it is advisable to avoid trying to remove it yourself. If you experience any changes in hearing, persistent discomfort, or other symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

In terms of cleaning, the general recommendation is to avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. If you feel that you need to clean your ears, you can gently wipe the outer ear with a damp cloth. If you suspect that you have excessive earwax buildup that is affecting your hearing or causing discomfort, it is best to seek professional help. An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can safely remove earwax using specialized tools and techniques.

In summary, if you are not experiencing any symptoms, it is usually best to leave earwax alone. The ear is designed to manage its own wax production and removal. If you have concerns about earwax or any changes in your ear health, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide you with the best advice tailored to your specific situation, especially considering the current health concerns related to the pandemic.

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